What is the concept of Google?
Google Concept is a software tool that combines the Google search engine with a mind mapping application.
Mind mapping, also known as concept mapping, is a method used in business, training, and education to put thoughts on paper. It is often used as a means of recording project brainstorming, planning, and analysis sessions.
Traditionally, these types of mind maps have been produced on flip charts or on paper, but a variety of computer programs are increasingly available that allow maps to be produced on a laptop or desktop computer.
To the naked eye, a mind map would often look like a tree or a spider web. At its center is a central theme or idea. From this central theme, the lines shoot out like branches. Each line links to a subtopic or theme. More lines emanate from each subtopic and link to smaller subtopics or ideas. As you move along a line from the center outward, you will see your original theme break down more and more into more precise concepts.
Each topic and subtopic is represented by a word, a phrase or an image, or a combination of these. The power of a mind map is that a large, complex, or perhaps vague central theme can be explored and broken down into smaller, more manageable, and more tangible ideas. A mind map can also show the relationship between the ideas and the original topic. Another power of mind mapping is that one’s thoughts can focus more on details instead of trying to deal with some big empty concept.
Essentially, mind maps deal with ideas and information. These ideas and information become more focused and specific as the topic is further broken down.
The idea behind Google Concept is that it takes the central topic and subtopics and treats them as keywords. These keywords can be automatically used in a Google search, the results of which can be linked to the mind map. When complete, the mind map has not only divided the original topic into subtopics, but also has links to information at each point in the form of related websites.
This way, a businessman can plan a new project or explore a new proposal using a mind map in the usual way, but also instantly have a collection of links to related websites from which to learn more. Including, presumably, information about similar projects, rival firms and possible alternatives.
A student or school child might use a mind map to explore ideas about a topic of study. As they break down the topic, Google Concept will provide links from which the student or learner can get more information and reference material to support their study.
All in all, Google Concept seems to be a powerful new tool with a lot of potential. As more and more people learn about and use mind maps, Google Concept could become a more natural way to search for information on the ever-expanding Internet.
There is only one problem. Google Concept does not exist yet. I write this article in the hope that it will find its way in front of the guys at Google, who might pick it up and invite me to discuss it with them.